Jamal Murray‘s frustrating night on the court took an unusual turn when he hurled a heating pad onto the hardwood in disgust, sparking controversy about a potential NBA suspension.
The Denver Nuggets guard’s unorthodox move came during the second quarter of Game 2 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, with the Nuggets trailing 49-30. Murray’s aim, however, was off target – much like his shooting for the night.
The incident sparked a brief delay as officials scrambled to figure out what had happened. No technical foul was issued, and the game continued without further incident. Murray’s heating pad toss was a rare moment of levity in an otherwise dominant performance by the Timberwolves, who led by as many as 23 points in the first half.
ESPN analyst Tim Legler later poked fun at Murray’s misfire, quipping on “Get Up”: “He was 3-for-18. I’m not shocked he missed Marc Davis with that heat pack.”
Tim Legler on Jamal Murray throwing a heat pack toward official Marc Davis on Monday night: "He was 3-for-18. I'm not shocked he missed Marc Davis with that heat pack." pic.twitter.com/mMawnqvSTV
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) May 7, 2024
The Nuggets, however, face a tough road ahead, down 2-0 in the Western Conference semifinal series. Murray must improve his aim if Denver hopes to mount a comeback against the dominant Timberwolves. The Nuggets will need all the help they can get to overcome the Timberwolves, who have looked unstoppable in the series.
Despite the humor, the Nuggets’ struggles on the court are no laughing matter. Murray’s heating pad toss was a rare frustration that could prove costly.
If they hope to turn the series around, they must find a way to contain the Timberwolves’ potent offense and get their shooting back on track. However, Murray is at risk of a suspension as the NBA reviews the incident.
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